By Kehinde Erin
Nigerian youths have been urged to take proactive steps towards entrepreneurship and skills development as a strategic approach to tackling unemployment and contributing meaningfully to the country’s economic growth and development. By embracing this approach, young Nigerians can empower themselves to become drivers of innovation, job creation, and economic progress.
Multiple speakers shared this information at the 5th Annual Oladele John Niyi (OJN) Symposium themed: ‘Youth Entrepreneurship & Empowerment: Panacea to Foster Soci-econimic Development in a society’ in Lokoja, recently.
The Director-General, Government House Administration, Alhaji Shuaibu Oricha, represented by Director of Administration, Mrs. F. Bello, praised the convener, Oladele John Niyi, for initiating a programme that will revolutionise the mindset of Kogi youths, inspiring them to embrace skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. He commended Oladele’s efforts in shaping the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs, and acknowledged the symposium’s potential to have a lasting impact on the state’s development.
The Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Dr. (Mrs.) Helen Aderibegbe, expressed her Ministry’s willingness to partner with the Annual OJN Symposium, fostering a collaborative relationship that aims to promote innovation, skills development, and entrepreneurship among youths, ultimately driving economic growth and societal progress.
Dr. (Mrs.) Aderibegbe emphasised that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a vital tool that spearheads youth entrepreneurship and skill acquisition, providing the necessary platform for young individuals to develop innovative ideas, access resources, and connect with global opportunities, thereby unlocking their full potential and driving socio-economic growth.
Oladele John Niyi, the convener of the OJN Symposium and Special Adviser on Youth and Student Matters to Governor Ododo, revealed that the symposium was borne out of his vision to empower young people and provide them with a positive outlet. He aimed to distract them from idle street activities and instead, inspire them to embrace skills acquisition and entrepreneurship, thereby equipping them with the tools necessary to become productive and successful contributors to society.
He expressed his gratitude to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for the opportunity to inspire and empower Kogi youths and students, encouraging them to become exemplary representatives of their state and nation. He emphasised that acquiring skills and embracing entrepreneurship are essential for achieving success in life, and urged the youths to embrace these values in order to unlock their full potential and create a brighter future for themselves.
In his address, the Keynote Speaker, Dr. Oladele Peter, underscored the vital role of youth entrepreneurship and empowerment in driving national growth and development. He emphasised the need for the government to implement policies and programs that foster a supportive environment for young entrepreneurs, promoting skills development and empowering the next generation of leaders to contribute meaningfully to the country’s prosperity.
Dr. Peter further emphasised that young people should take the initiative to acquire skills and pursue entrepreneurial ventures, rather than solely relying on the prospect of securing traditional white-collar jobs. By doing so, they will not only empower themselves but also contribute to the country’s economic growth and development.
He praised the convener, for initiating the Annual OJN Symposium, a timely and impactful initiative that will significantly contribute to addressing pressing issues such as unemployment, youth restiveness, and other social challenges, thereby fostering a more prosperous and harmonious society.
His Royal Highness, the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Owoniyi Solomon, admonished the youth to prioritise their education and strive to create value that contributes to the socioeconomic progress of the state. He encouraged them to embrace entrepreneurship and skills acquisition, which are essential for unlocking their potential and driving growth.
The monarch also commended Oladele John Niyi, the convener of the programme, for his laudable initiative, which aligns with the kingdom’s vision for youth empowerment and development.
In his address, the Guest Speaker, Mr. Lawrence Uleji, spoke on the significance of youth entrepreneurship as a key driver of socioeconomic progress. He encouraged young individuals to cultivate a passion for skills acquisition, which would enable them to become job creators rather than mere job seekers, ultimately empowering them to become employers and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth.
The event, which was organised to celebrate the birthday of Ambassador Niyi, was attended by a diverse range of dignitaries, including traditional royal fathers, representatives from the National Youth Corps Service, officials from various security agencies, students, and key stakeholders in the education and youth development sector. The programme was a fitting tribute to Ambassador Niyi’s commitment to youth empowerment and development.
